HECTOR, N.Y. (WENY) -- Last weeks flooding in Schuyler and Seneca Counties has had very adverse effects on the waters of Seneca Lake. Contaminants from storm water runoff, propane tanks, and other various debris have all entered the lake due to the flooding.

Despite cleanup efforts being in full swing, everything that has gone on has caused a lot of headaches for the local residents. NY Department of Environmental Conservation Officials have been doing their best to get the lake back to normal, but this is a job requiring a lot of patience and man power.

So much debris was swept away with nowhere else to go, but into the lake. Because of this, swimming at this time is nowhere near recommended, and it cannot be stressed enough that you will not be safe just because you are on a boat.

DEC Lieutenant Matthew Lochner told us, "At this time we are working on hazards to the environment such as vehicles and propane tanks, but also hazards to navigation. Both are of equal importance. Obviously if you hit a log that could destroy your boat. Likewise, fuel tanks and vehicles leaking their petroleum products will lead to harmful environmental damages."

Lochner added, "It would be very important to be cognizant of the marine recovery operation. We are moving large amounts of debris. Obviously give these boats involved a lot of room to do what we are doing. Likewise, recreational boaters should be careful of these hazards in the water. Wear a life jacket, use prudent speed, and keeps your eyes out for large amounts of debris in the water."

For more information on safety, or if you are a flood affected resident on Seneca Lake, you can reach out to the NYDEC at 585-226-5400 or visit https://www.dec.ny.gov/.